Robert I. Hardison

Robert I. Hardison, 84, beloved husband of Carolyn Shaw Hardison from Wells, Maine passed away on September 17, 2026 surrounded by family. He was born July 20, 1942, in Caribou, Maine, the son of Waldo and Phyllis Hardison. He grew up in Caribou, Maine with his mother, father, and sister. He graduated from Caribou High School, class of 1960, followed by University of Maine in Orono, Maine, class of 1964, earning a degree in Engineering. He started his career at Buffalo Pumps, later moving to Goulds Pumps in Seneca Falls, New York where Robert and Carolyn raised their children, Bryan and Kathy, for 15 years. He furthered his career in Sanford, Maine where he and Carolyn opened Atlantic Pump and Engineering in 1991.

Robert married Carolyn on June 20, 1964. Robert’s true calling was his devotion to his family and his community efforts. He began his community involvement with Delta Tau Delta Fraternity, serving as Chapter President. He devoted his time, energy, and efforts to the New York State Jaycees, United Way, and Rotary. Moving through the years, he continued his community efforts through Sanford Industrial Development Corp, Sanford Planning Board, Sandford/Springvale Chamber of Commerce, York Country Technical College Board of Directors, Sanford Regional Economic Growth Council, serving as a founding member, and continued his Rotary service. He fulfilled his love for sports by serving on the Board of Sanford Mainers and fulfilled his faith, serving on the Board of Trustees of North Parish Church. His true passion was fulfilled through his service of 30 years to Maine Health where he began on the Board of Trustees of Goodall Hospital in 1995, continuing by serving the Cancer Care Center of York County Board of Directors, and then Maine Medical Center Board of Directors through 2025.

Robert was not only passionate about his family and stewardship, but for his love of fishing where he often traveled back to Madawaska Lake. His legacy will remain in the organizations he served, in his roots of Aroostook County, and through his family.

He is survived by his wife Carolyn of 62 years, son Bryan R. Hardison and wife Andrea of Orono, ME, daughter Kathyrn H. Coppi and husband Todd of Hudson, NH, followed by 3 granddaughters, Elizabeth H. Bartlett and husband Dakota of Bangor, ME, Isabella M. Coppi of Hudson, NH, and Emma J. Coppi of Hudson, NH. A sister, Barbara Hardison of Auburn, Maine and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 4th, 1:30 PM at North Parish Congregational Church, 895 Main St, Sanford, Maine.